BMW Motorrad has unveiled the R12 S, a café racer paying homage to the iconic R90 S of the 1970s. Scheduled for release in February 2025, the R12 S offers enthusiasts a blend of classic design and contemporary performance.
The original R90 S set a new standard for BMW Motorrad with its performance–achieving notable racing successes. It secured a class victory in the 1976 Production TT race on the Isle of Man. It also won the Daytona 200 in the same year, ridden by Steve McLaughlin. Additionally, Reg Pridmore used the R90 S to clinch the first-ever AMA Superbike Championship in the USA. The R12 S captures this storied legacy, offering riders a modern machine infused with the spirit of its predecessor.
The R12 S stands out with its striking Lava Orange Metallic paint, reminiscent of the R90 S’s Daytona Orange livery from 1975. This vibrant color scheme pops with red double pinstriping and sections of brushed and clear-lacquered aluminum on the fuel tank and rear seat hump. A handlebar-mounted cockpit fairing with a tinted windscreen enhances its café racer appeal, while black-finished handlebars and upside-down fork tubes provide a modern contrast. Additional black accents adorn the ignition coil covers, oil filler screw, and cylinder head covers, contributing to the bike’s cohesive and nostalgic design.
Performance and Features
At the heart of the R12 S lies a 1,170cc air/oil-cooled boxer twin engine, delivering 108bhp. This powerplant traces its lineage back to the 2007 HP2 Sport, ensuring a blend of reliability and spirited performance. The engine is paired with a six-speed gearbox and a shaft drive system, providing smooth and efficient power delivery.
The R12 S utilizes the same chassis as the R12 nineT. It features an adjustable upside-down fork at the front and a monoshock at the rear. Braking components include dual 310mm front disc rotors with radially mounted four-piston calipers and a single 265mm rear disc. The bike rides on 17-inch wire-spoked wheels, enhancing its classic appearance.
Despite its retro styling, BMW equipped the R12 S with modern technology to enhance the riding experience. Standard features include Hill Start Control, Shift Assistant Pro (quickshifter), heated grips, and cruise control. Additionally, the adaptive cornering light, known as Headlight Pro, ensures better illumination during night rides. Riders can also choose from three riding modes—Rain, Road, and Dynamic—to tailor the bike’s performance to various conditions.
Pricing and Availability
The BMW R12 S is priced at £18,460 in the UK and is expected to arrive at dealerships in February 2025. This positions it approximately £4,000 above the standard R12 nineT, reflecting its enhanced features and distinctive design.
With the introduction of the R12 S, BMW Motorrad successfully bridges the gap between past and present, delivering a motorcycle that honors its heritage while embracing modern advancements. The R12 S affirms BMW’s commitment to crafting machines that resonate with both nostalgic enthusiasts and contemporary riders alike.
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